Most Wired hospitals met a set of information technology criteria across four operational categories to reduce the likelihood of medical errors. Among Most Wired hospitals, 81 percent of medications are matched to the patient, nurse and order via bar code technology at the bedside.

Recent adoptions in the technology arena at the hospitals include:

- a computerized physician order entry system;

- instant voice communication for clinicians;

- bedside computerized medication carts; and

- electronic medical records.

"The Most Wired data show that shared health information allows clinicians and patients to have the information they need to promote health and make the most informed decisions about treatments," said Rich Umbdenstock, president and CEO of the American Hospital Association.